Healthy food choices are important at any age, but especially so as your body changes with aging. It’s important to go for colorful fruits, dark, leafy greens full of antioxidants, calcium, whole grains, healthy fats, and protein.

If you already have any of these chronic conditions, eating well and staying physically active can keep them in check. Healthy eating may also help you reduce high blood pressure, lower high cholesterol, and manage diabetes.

“Eating well gives you the nutrients needed to keep your muscles, bones, organs, and other parts of your body healthy throughout your life,” according to the National Institute on Aging. “Eating well helps keep your energy level up, too. Consuming the right number of calories for your level of physical activity helps you control your weight, (and) your food choices also affect digestion.”

Eating healthily doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. It’s actually about variety so you get all the nutrients you need and maintain a healthy weight.

“It’s about not eating too much of some things – like saturated fat, sugar and salt – while getting enough of others – like fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals,” writesAge UK.

The definition of healthy eating does change a little as you age. “For example, as you grow older, your metabolism slows down, so you need fewer calories than before. Your body also needs more of certain nutrients,” according to the National Council on Aging. “ That means it’s more important than ever to choose foods that give you the best nutritional value.”

Similarly, it's important to get all the energy and nutrients that your body needs. If you don't eat as much as you used to, eat smaller meals more often and supplement them with nutritious snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, and wholegrain toast.

“You may eat less because you find it more difficult to buy or prepare food, or because you find it harder to get around if you have a condition such as arthritis,” writesHealth Direct. “Eat regularly, at least three times a day. If you don't feel like cooking from scratch, have a tinned, chilled, or frozen ready-prepared meal instead. It's a good idea to have a store of foods in the freezer and cupboard in case you cannot go out.”

As you age you might have trouble chewing or swallowing, so switch to softer foods but make sure they’re nutrient dense, according to the University of Wisconsin Health.

If you’re on a budget, tips to save some money while eating well include making a shopping list before you go to the grocery store and buying only items on the list, planning meals and snacks in advance (that will help you organize your grocery list and pick foods on sale), reviewing store flyers for coupons and specials, choosing store brands instead of brand names, and eating at restaurants that offer senior discounts.

Growing older doesn’t mean a switch to boring and bland food. It just requires more forethought and planning to make sure you’re get the nutrition you need to stay strong and healthy. By following some simple guidelines, you can ensure you’re getting the nutrition you need and still enjoying what you eat.